Revisiting Rachel (May 26, 2026)

This week we welcomed Tom and Glenn from the Rotary Club of Port Moody, who shared an inspiring and heartfelt update on the ongoing Rachel Project in Belize.

Their recent trip brought a team of 28 Rotarians and volunteers to the Toledo District in southern Belize — one of the country’s most remote and underserved regions. The mission? Deliver technology, training, and opportunity to students and communities with little or no internet access.

At the heart of the project is the “Rachel” device — a portable offline server loaded with educational content, the information in the Smithsonian, that allows schools to access learning materials without needing internet service. Along with the Rachel units, the team delivered an incredible 340 Chromebooks, printers, and educational supplies to 17 schools.

Tom described the experience of arriving at the schools as “the highlight of the trip.” Students were eagerly waiting for the technology to arrive, and many had never used a computer before. Within minutes, the children were helping each other learn, exploring educational games and activities, and proudly carrying their new Chromebooks into class. The excitement and joy were contagious.

The project also extends beyond schools. The team has been working for several years with the Belize Central Prison, which is uniquely managed by a nonprofit organization supported by Rotary. Through the Rachel devices and Chromebooks, inmates are gaining access to literacy programs, math, biology, and vocational learning opportunities. Several interviews shared during the presentation highlighted how education is helping restore dignity, purpose, and hope.

In addition to the educational work, volunteers tackled some hands-on community projects — including renovating badly needed school washrooms. A separate group also delivered menstrual kits and educational support to girls in smaller rural schools through the Days for Girls initiative.

Glenn reflected on the impact the experience had on him personally, calling it “one of the most meaningful Rotary projects” he has ever been involved with. Both speakers emphasized that while the trip included some fun and fellowship, the real reward came from seeing how transformative access to education can be.

The Rachel Project is a remarkable example of Rotary making a tangible difference in the lives of young people and communities who might otherwise be left behind. A huge thank you to Tom and Glenn for making the early morning trip to share their story with us — and for the incredible work being done in Belize.

Rotarians had plenty to share this week — from family adventures and travel tales to tumbles, theatre, and proud grandparent moments.

Melinda returned after battling a bug apparently gifted by her grandchildren. Unfortunately, recovery took a detour when she took a nasty tumble on the patio while babysitting Heath’s girls, leaving her bruised and hobbling. Not to be outdone, John also managed a fall while trying to help a friend with Parkinson’s. Their household is currently operating under a “who’s limping more?” competition.

Amanda and Graham celebrated their anniversary with a trip to the Gardens, where the flowers were beautiful and the parking apparently located somewhere 35 miles away. Their household was extra lively after relatives escaped a scam Airbnb in Kelowna and arrived four days early. The family cat survived the invasion but is reportedly thrilled to have the house back to just Amanda and Graham. Amanda also announced she’s looking forward to golf lessons with Garth.

Jeanette shared that she’s been spending lots of time connecting with her parents overseas. She also amused everyone with a story about her son complaining about hospital expenses abroad and suggesting he return to Canada where healthcare is “free.”

Joyce is gearing up for summer fun with her granddaughters and is especially excited because her sisters are flying in from across Canada. The sisters are apparently planning to “take over the city,” which sounds both ambitious and slightly concerning.

Larry proudly reported on his athletic grandchildren, including a grandson competing in national football and soccer events this weekend. Larry made it very clear that Grandpa’s attendance is considered essential to team success.

Elena thanked Debbie for treating her and her husband to lunch at Cactus Club and also shared her fascination with the Rotary project loading computers and televisions for shipment overseas.

Sam admitted to fighting off a cold but brightened up considerably while describing a young child he sees who has just started talking and proudly called him “doctor” for the first time — a career highlight right there.

Kal announced a few changes to his golf team lineup and is looking forward to family visiting next week for what promises to be a fun reunion.

Marg sympathized with the growing list of injured Rotarians after taking a spill of her own. A rogue toilet paper holder, tile floor, bruises, and a broken door were all somehow involved in the incident.

Susan shared that Ryan safely returned from California, where family gathered in San Francisco to spend precious final moments with a beloved sister-in-law. Closer to home, Susan is enjoying simpler pleasures as pool season has officially opened.

Lawrence reflected on how supportive Rotary can be when members are facing challenges and also mentioned enjoying time with family and youth soccer.

Chris M. delighted everyone with a story about his two-year-old granddaughter Eleanor participating in her preschool YMCA superhero fundraiser. Sporting a custom red cape with a giant “E,” Eleanor proudly wore it all day long. Chris also spoke passionately about the importance of reliable educational resources in an age increasingly dominated by AI-generated information.

Gordon expanded on the discussion about AI and education, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and sharing the remarkable international growth of the Rachel educational Chromebook project in places like Kenya, the Philippines, and Belize.

John added that AI is here to stay, noting that his teacher son-in-law now has students verify AI research with independent sources. He also confessed to consulting ChatGPT about his bad hip — though thankfully the diagnosis still ended with “see a healthcare professional.” John wrapped up with fatherly wisdom: “Getting old is not for sissies.” He also shared a hilarious baseball story about a young player proudly giving two thumbs-up after getting hit in the helmet by a pitch.

Eleanore talked about adjusting to retirement and trying very hard not to work around the clock anymore — though she admitted to once bringing her laptop to the hairdresser. She’s now fielding babysitting requests from her children and learning how to finally “turn it off” after decades of working full-time. All while avoiding disclosing her real age.

Debbie T. praised the accomplishments of scholarship recipients heading to UBC and BCIT, then shared her enthusiasm for seeing Mamma Mia! — where apparently the entire audience, including her husband, sang along. Debbie also announced the family is officially on “baby watch,” with two grandchildren expected very soon.

Another lively Rotary morning filled with laughter, stories, and proof that Rotarians never seem to have a dull week.

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